Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: Former Director of RIMS, Imphal Dr. Ahanthem Santa Singh has been appointed as the new Executive Director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh, by the Appointment Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). Currently serving as Dean (Academics), Dr. Santa Singh brings extensive expertise to the role, with over three decades of experience in medical education, administration, and public health management, he is also the first from Manipur to be appointed in the post. Dr. Santa Singh completed his MBBS in 1985 at JIPMER, Pondicherry, under Madras University, and later pursued his MD in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from the same institute in 1990
He also earned a DNB (Diplomate of National Board) in 1991 and a Fellowship from the Indian Academy of Obstetrics and Gynecology, cementing his academic and professional credentials. With more than 20 years of administrative experience, Dr. Santa Singh has held key positions in various prestigious institutions. He served as Director of RIMS, Imphal, from 2017 to 2022, during which he played a pivotal role in elevating the institute to the top 50 best medical institutions in India, according to NIRF rankings, for four consecutive years. He also served as Director of NEIGRIHMS, Shillong, from 2011 to 2012, and contributed significantly to the development of both the hospital and academic departments. As Dean and Principal of NEIGRIHMS from 2010 to 2018, he introduced innovative teaching methodologies and strengthened the academic programs. Dr. Santa Singh has been an active contributor at the national level as well. He has been a Governing Body Member and Standing Selection Committee Member of JIPMER, Pondicherry, and currently serves as a Think Tank Member at the National Health System Resource Center (NHSRC) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. His vast expertise in both academics and administration has established him as a trusted leader in the field of medical education and healthcare management. His accomplishments have been widely recognized. Dr. Santa Singh was honored as one of the 20 Best Teachers in Obstetrics and Gynaecology by FOGSI in 2021 for his outstanding contributions to teaching and clinical practice. He also received the Leadership Summit Excellence Award in 2003 at Bangalore and was named the Most Valuable Resource Person (MVRP) by IIM Shillong during a workshop on sustainable healthcare management systems.
